Things to do near the Pilanesberg

Most guests come for the game and are happy never to leave the reserve. But if you are building a longer trip, or driving up from Johannesburg with time in hand, there is a lot within reach.

Sun City — on the doorstep

Roughly 33 km away. Valley of Waves, two championship golf courses, the Palace of the Lost City and the largest permanent maze in the southern hemisphere. Read more about Sun City.

Hartbeespoort Dam and the Magaliesberg — on the way

About halfway between Johannesburg and the Pilanesberg, and an easy detour if you drive the scenic route. The Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway lifts you to the top of the Magaliesberg for a long view back over the dam — the single most popular thing day visitors do here.

Around the dam you will find watersports, craft markets, farm stalls, and a scattering of country restaurants. The Van Gaalen cheese farm and local olive farms both do tastings, and hot-air balloon flights launch over the valley on calm mornings.

The Cradle of Humankind — a day trip from Johannesburg

A UNESCO World Heritage Site about 50 km north-west of Johannesburg, and one of the richest hominin fossil sites on earth. The Sterkfontein Caves run guided tours underground. The Maropeng Visitor Centre covers 2 500 m² of exhibition space and opens with an underground boat ride through the story of human origins.

It is not really a side trip from the reserve — it works better as a stop on the way in or out — but it is worth the day if you have one to spare.

Closer to home

Inside and around the park itself: hot air balloon flights over the crater, guided bush walks, the walk-in aviary, the photographic hides overlooking the waterholes, and the Pilanesberg Centre. See activities and adventures for what we can book alongside your stay.

All of these are independently operated. Opening hours and prices change — check directly before making the drive.